By Daryl Major

A pint of blood could be the perfect Christmas gift

Dec 8, 2017 | 5:01 PM

NANAIMO – If you’re looking for something different to give as a Christmas gift, Canadian Blood Services suggests a donation.

Donor clinics are Dec. 12 through 14 and then again on Dec. 19 and 20 at the Beban Park Social Centre.

David Patterson, director of donor relations for BC and the Yukon, told NanaimoNewsNOW a donation means more at this time of year.

“When people are looking for somewhere to make a difference, we’d like people to think that the best way you can make a difference in somebody’s life, really is by giving blood,” he said. “At the very least you’re going to improve somebody’s life and at the very best, you could save somebody’s life.”

Patterson said a blood donation is also a gift that won’t be returned.

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With most regular donors ages 50 or over, they’re looking for younger people to sit in their chairs.

“You know, if you’re a young person and you’re looking to get a gift for mom, go donate a unit of blood and make that your gift to your mom. It doesn’t cost you anything.”

While half of Canadians are eligible to donate, Patterson said roughly only one in 60 does.

Appointments to donate blood can be made online, over the phone or in person on the day.

Daryl.major@jpbg.ca